NCJ Number
204985
Date Published
March 2002
Length
69 pages
Annotation
This document presents detailed, probationer-level data to support program and policy development in the State of Illinois.
Abstract
The data were based on the collection and analyses of a sample of more than 3,300 adult probationers discharged during 2000. The probation departments are handling larger than ever caseloads that are comprised of probationers with a broad array of risk factors and needs. One-third of the probationers were unemployed when sentenced, almost one-third lacked a high school diploma or GED, most had annual incomes below $20,000, the majority had alcohol or illegal drug abuse problems, and almost one-half had previously been through the criminal justice system. Many of the adult probationers were also parents living with children, and this was particularly true for female probationers. More than 40 percent of male, and 56 percent of female probationers had children, although females were more likely than males to be living with these children. Adults placed on probation in Illinois were not only monitored by probation officers, but were also required to participate in treatment programs, pay fees and fines to offset the costs of the justice system’s operations, and some were also required to perform community service and submit to urinalysis. The outcomes of adult probation services were quite positive. A relatively small proportion of adult probationers were rearrested for a non-traffic offense while on probation, and hardly any of these new offenses were violent in nature. Less than 15 percent of the probationers had their sentence revoked due to either a new crime or technical violation. Sixty percent of those ordered to treatment either completed it or were still enrolled in it by the end of probation. The practice and policy issues that these data raise are the identification and treatment of substance abuse problems; information needs; and vocational and educational needs. 9 references, 2 appendices